Principal Software Engineer, APAC

Location: Candidates based in Hong Kong or Singapore

Remote | Full-time

Compensation: $160K - $240K

We are hiring on behalf of our client who is seeking a Principal Software Engineer based in Hong Kong or Singapore to spearhead the design and evolution of core backend systems. This role is instrumental in driving the architecture of services powering wallet operations, transaction processing, and multi-blockchain integrations.

The successful candidate will lead efforts to ensure systems remains fast, reliable, and secure while scaling across global financial markets. Beyond technical implementation, this individual will guide architectural decisions, elevate engineering standards, and mentor senior engineers. The role involves close collaboration with product, security, and leadership teams to align technical execution with company priorities, ensuring infrastructure performs optimally under real-world financial workloads.

Key Responsibilities

• Architectural Leadership: Lead the design and development of scalable, secure backend services and APIs.
• System Evolution: Define and evolve the architecture for databases, microservices, and various integrations.
• End-to-End Ownership: Own mission-critical projects from initial requirements through to production and subsequent iterations.
• Technical Problem Solving: Troubleshoot and resolve complex performance and reliability challenges at a global scale.
• Strategic Collaboration: Partner with leadership to shape roadmap priorities and define the long-term technical vision.
• Mentorship: Mentor engineering staff, promote technical best practices, and represent the organization in technical discussions.

Requirements

• Experience: 10+ years of backend software engineering, including significant leadership experience within the fintech or blockchain sectors.
• Technical Mastery: Expert-level proficiency in TypeScript and a proven track record of building scalable APIs and developer tools.
• Infrastructure Expertise: Deep knowledge of databases (PostgreSQL, DynamoDB, NoSQL) and cloud environments (AWS).
• Operational Knowledge: Strong understanding of microservices, CI/CD pipelines, observability, and the Secure Software Development Life Cycle (SSDLC).
• Security Domain Knowledge: Familiarity with public key infrastructure (PKI) and secure backend architectures.
• Communication: Exceptional problem-solving skills and the ability to effectively influence technical direction across teams.

Benefits

• Compensation: Annual salary ranging from $160,000–$240,000.
• Equity: 150–300 stock options vested over a four-year period.
• Health & Wellness: Comprehensive healthcare coverage.
• Travel & Tools: Coverage for travel expenses and provision of a MacBook Pro with essential peripherals.
• Flexibility: Remote-first work environment with the option to utilize local office space

Interview Process

The hiring process is designed to be rigorous and comprehensive, ensuring alignment on both technical skill and cultural fit:

1. Hiring Manager Interview: An introductory 30-minute call with the Co-CEO.
2. Behavioral & Cognitive Assessment: A 45-minute assessment via TestGorilla focusing on critical thinking, verbal reasoning, attention to detail, numerical reasoning, and problem-solving. (Note: Parts of this assessment are strictly timed at 10 minutes per section).
3. Technical Focus Interviews: A 180-minute deep dive with a hiring panel consisting of four distinct segments:

• Code Review
• Architecture Review
• Security Fundamentals
• Culture Fit

1. Final Interview: A 30-minute closing discussion with the CTO.
2. Due Diligence: Final reference and background checks.

Due to the high volume of applications we anticipate, we regret that we are unable to provide individual feedback to all candidates. If you do not hear back from us within 4 weeks of your application, please assume that you have not been successful on this occasion. We genuinely appreciate your interest and wish you the best in your job search.

Commitment to Equality and Accessibility:

At MLabs, we are committed to offer equal opportunities to all candidates. We ensure no discrimination, accessible job adverts, and providing information in accessible formats. Our goal is to foster a diverse, inclusive workplace with equal opportunities for all. If you need any reasonable adjustments during any part of the hiring process or you would like to see the job-advert in an accessible format please let us know at the earliest opportunity by emailing [email protected].

MLabs Ltd collects and processes the personal information you provide such as your contact details, work history, resume, and other relevant data for recruitment purposes only. This information is managed securely in accordance with MLabs Ltd’s Privacy Policy and Information Security Policy, and in compliance with applicable data protection laws. Your data may be shared only with clients and trusted partners where necessary for recruitment purposes. You may request the deletion of your data or withdraw your consent at any time by contacting [email protected].